BMW is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 3 series series this year, so we are at BMWblog deal with the history of the model and its contribution to the success of the car manufacturer. We have already looked at the past generations – from the E21 to the F30. The E30 (second generation) and the E46 (fourth generation) remain the favorites of the enthusiasts, but the E90 and the F30 made great progress towards digitization, sustainability and luxury.
Nevertheless, today we will check the 3 -generation 3 series today. The latter has been in production since 2019 and is available in limousines (including long-wall) and the body styles in the estate. Similar to its predecessor, the Coupé and Cabrio models are marketed under the 4 Series Type (G22).
Removal of the defects of the F30
Remember that the most important change in the F30 was the increased emphasis on luxury, with more sophisticated interiors, larger personalization options and mechanical improvements such as the journey. However, some BMW followers argued that these “upgrades” dilute the 3 series -performance -DNA.
To mention unnecessarily that the Bavarian car manufacturer was concerned with the G20. Based on the Clar architecture, the chassis of the seventh generation is more dynamic than its predecessor. In the meantime, the steering reaction, the lock and the drive train for greater responsiveness were also revised. In fact, some say that the factor of the G20-Fun-to-Drive factor is comparable to previous 3 generations such as the E46.
Of course, the F30 was by no means an unattractive car – after that it achieved 2.6 million sales. His softer handling damaged the brand value of BMW, especially in view of the progress of the Audi A4 and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the arrival of new competitors such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia (which won 2018 Engine trend Award of the year of the year).
Performance specifications
In the United States, the G20 is offered in two variants – the 330i and the M340i. The 330i produces 255 hp and runs from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.6 seconds, which is more than sufficient for daily driving. On the other hand, the M340i generates 386 hp and can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.1 seconds.
For those who want even more power, there is the M3 (G80), which is available for the first time with all -wheel drive. During the base M3 473 HP, the M3 competition XDRIVE has a power of 523 hp and reaches a time of 0 to 60 miles per hour of only 3.4 seconds. As a reference, these numbers are comparable to the Porsche 911 Carrera S, which is 473 hp and is from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.3 seconds.
With regard to the pricing, the 330i begins at $ 45,950, the M340i at $ 60,200 and the M3 at $ 76,700. In particular, a well-equipped M3 competition XDrive with the carbon package over $ 100,000 costs, although this is still less than the 911 Carrera ($ 120,100) or the 911 Carrera S ($ 146,400).
Electrification and technology
The G20 is also available in plug-in hybrid and all electrical configurations in overseas markets. The latter switched off the i3 and intended exclusively for the Chinese market, has a 70 kWh battery that offers 282 hp and 327 miles.
If you ask yourself, BMW has the i4 for American buyers in this segment. It was a price for $ 57,900 and was the highest premium car in the Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) study by JD Power and also the best-selling M model from BMW (i4 m50).
In addition, the G20 is also equipped with advanced technical functions, including Idrive 8.5, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Intelligent personal assistant, head-up display and various driver aid systems.
Best in the class?
In summary, the G20 offers an excellent mix of comfort, performance, digitization and efficiency and despite the growing competition, the class leader remains. In addition, further improvements in technology and electrification with the eighth generation G50/new class will be made next year.
